Burgundy is a region in France. It produces Red Burgundy (Pinot Noir) and White Burgundy (Chardonay). The color burgundy is just that: a color.
In California there are no laws that regulate which grape varietal can be made into "burgundy". Californian "burgundy" is typically red. In France, however, Burgundy is a region. Wines that come from...
Yes, you can not only substitute Merlot for Burgundy, but you might find that you like it better than Burgundy
In the Catholic church it represents Jesus' blood. In a mass it BECOMES the blood of Christ. Called trans-substantiation - Yummy!
Only if it is white or rose.